Each living thing in the Ayurvedic universe contains five different elements, which in the human body combine into three distinct energy forces or doshas. Vata is air, governing the nervous and circulation systems, Kapha governs our cells and structure, and Pitta representing heat, governs our metabolism. Each individual is born in the state of 'prakruti', which corresponds to the level of three doshas that are right for that person. However stress, diet, trauma and injury can cause the doshas to become imbalanced, a state known as 'vikruthi', The aim of Ayurveda is to first identify and rectify these imbalances through. use of herbs, diet, detoxification exercise and meditation.

"In Ayurveda, sound has a profound effect on health... music and sound therapy have been used in ancient India and Sri Lanka to aid meditation and deep relaxation."
DR. SHANTHA GODAGAMA

"DR SHANTHA GODAGAMA MBAcC, DAM&S, MF (HOW, FAMA (UK), MAcF

One of the world's leading Ayurvedic practitioners and the founder President of the Ayurvedic Medical Association UK. Dr.Godagama studied Ayurvedic medicine at the Government Institute of Ayurveda, now part of the Colombo University in Sri Lanka, and then undertook postgraduate study in panchkarma therapy. In 1972 he set up in private practice in Sri Lanka, combining conventional and traditional medicine, later studying acupuncture and homeopathy. He came to Britain in 1979 as a complementary medical consultant and in 1986 he became a Director of Therapies at Tyringham Residential Clinic. Ten years later he founded the College of Ayurveda London and was instrumental in the development of a postgraduate degree course. He is currently Director at both the Ayurvedic Medical Centre at the Hale Clinic in London and the Ayurvedic Research Institute in Milton Keynes as well as being the author of the 'Handbook of Ayurveda'.

Music is a universal language. It influences all levels of human existence. It is a medium for communication, which can be both a pleasant and healing experience.

Modern science and medicine are now rediscovering the healing powers of music. Music therapy - the specialized use of music in treating persons with special needs in mental and physical health, rehabilitation and special education - is gaining ground. In the West it is now an accepted form of treatment even within orthodox medical practice.

Music is an age-old part of Ayurveda, the holistic science which promotes a happy and healthy lifestyle. From time immemorial, music has been a part of Indian culture. In the Vedas too, music has an important place. The `Samaveda' (the Veda of Holy Songs) is full of music. The doshas like Vata, Pitta and Kapha can be controlled effectively by music therapy.

Great composers of Indian classical music have attempted music therapy down the years. Legend has it that classical music maestro Thyagaraja brought a dead person back to life with his composition.

It is believed that music stimulates the pituitary gland, whose secretions affect the nervous system and the flow of blood. It is believed that for healing with music, it is necessary to vibrate the cells of the body, for it is through these vibrations that the diseased person's consciousness can be changed effectively to promote health.

The right kind of music helps one relax and refresh. Even during the course of working, light music improves efficiency. Listening to music helps control negative aspects of our personalities like worry, bias and anger. In addition, it can help cure headache, abdominal pain and tension. Music therapy is one of the most effective ways of controlling emotions, blood pressure and restoring the functioning of the liver.